Volunteer voices: volunteering during university

Can you still be a volunteer with Girlguiding even when you’re at university or other higher education? The answer is yes! And there are many ways to stay involved. Check out this handy guide for leavers and leaders and read on for inspiration.

Erin, leader, Sussex East county (pictured)

Erin studied at The University of Nottingham from 2015-2020. After finishing Rangers in Sussex and moving up to Leicestershire, Erin found that she missed being involved regularly with Girlguiding and started searching for nearby opportunities. A local Guide unit was looking for a student to help volunteer during their unit meetings and the rest was history!

“I wasn't sure at the time whether I would enjoy becoming a unit helper after Rangers as it was a very different experience. However, I fell in love with it, ended up completing my leaders qualification, and spent nearly 4 fantastic years with the unit until I had to head back home after finishing university,” said Erin.

“I have many great memories of my time with 1st Sutton Bonington Guides, from re-taking my Promise whilst learning how to ice-skate (...sort of), to leading my first overnight camp at Alton Towers. I found being a unit leader provided me with a much-needed separation from my university course and helped with my work-life balance overall. It was also nice to be able to contribute towards the local community, and I hope that the girls enjoyed their time there as much as I did.”

After moving back home after university, Erin knew she wanted to continue volunteering as a unit leader. She contacted her local units to find a Guide unit that would appreciate a volunteer. Erin has now been with 2nd West Blatchington Guides for 3 years and hopes to be for many more years to come!

Erin’s advice for other students? “If you are heading off to university and interested in volunteering opportunities (such as a unit helper/leader), I would recommend contacting the local division or county commissioner as they will be able to let you know what local units are nearby and any which would appreciate the help. Many universities also have active Student Scout and Guide Organisation (SSAGO) groups if you are looking for more social opportunities.”

Holly, district helper, Surrey West county

Holly is a district helper in Cranleigh Village and is currently studying and living in Hampshire. Near enough to get home regularly, but too far to attend a weekly meeting. Whenever she is back, Holly is on hand to help out at 1^st Cranleigh Rainbows where she was a young leader. As university terms are often shorter than school terms, she’s often able to attend meetings either side

“It’s really helpful to have Holly at Rainbows in September to help us all get settled into a new guiding year. And we love having her at the end of summer term to help us get out and about in the warmer weather. She's a great asset to have whenever she is able to come along!"
— Hilary, unit leader, 1st Cranleigh Rainbows

Holly also attends many district events, including the annual Remembrance and Carnival parades, where it’s especially useful to have an extra pair of hands. Holly even happened to pass by her district’s stand at local Coronation celebrations, and immediately stopped to lend a hand for the rest of the day!

If you’re a volunteer moving into our region for university – or any reason – and need help finding a unit, please use our movers form and we’ll help you to get in touch with a local commissioner.

Your browser is out-of-date!